From an online post, a commentator posed a question that struck a nerve across the continent:
“If the African Union (AU) cannot create a single currency, a unified military, or a common passport, then what exactly is this union about?”
The response was immediate and intense. Many Africans openly questioned the relevance of the African Union in geopolitics, arguing that the institution no longer reflects the priorities of ordinary people. Some even joked that it should be renamed “Western Union”.
Behind the humour lies deep frustration. Africans are increasingly asking whether the AU continues to serve continental interests or has drifted from its founding purpose.
One of the most common criticisms centres on economic sovereignty. Commentators frequently ask how France has maintained economic leverage over 14 African states through the CFA Franc system. At the same time, Africa has failed to establish a single continental currency.
This contradiction fuels doubt about the AU’s effectiveness. If external actors can coordinate monetary systems across Africa, why has the continent itself struggled to do the same?
For many Africans, this raises uncomfortable questions about political will, elite interests, and the true limits of independence. Security is another major fault line. Africa hosts numerous foreign military bases, often justified as necessary for stability and counter-terrorism.
Yet the idea of a unified African military remains politically sensitive. Leaders often cite sovereignty concerns, despite the reality of external forces operating freely on African soil.
This paradox undermines confidence in the AU’s peace and security mandate. To critics, it suggests hesitation where bold continental coordination is needed most.
Borders, Sovereignty, and Leadership Anxiety
The question of open borders also exposes tension within African leadership. While other regions have eased movement to boost trade and integration, African leaders remain cautious.
Open borders are often framed as a threat rather than an opportunity. This fear has slowed progress on a common passport and deeper integration. As a result, many Africans see sovereignty being used as a shield for inaction rather than a tool for empowerment.
There is no denying that the AU still carries symbolic importance. It represents African unity and speaks on behalf of the continent in global forums.
However, symbolism alone no longer satisfies a continent facing conflict, economic fragmentation, and democratic decline. Institutions today are judged by results, not declarations.
This growing gap between promise and performance lies at the heart of debates about African Union relevance in geopolitics. Across social media and public discourse, dissatisfaction with the AU is widespread. Many Africans describe it as distant and disconnected from everyday realities.
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Some see it as a gathering of political elites who protect one another while citizens suffer. Others accuse it of endorsing flawed elections and remaining silent during abuses of power. These views, though harsh, reflect a serious crisis of legitimacy that the AU can no longer ignore.
The African Union was established in 2002 to replace the Organisation of African Unity. Its vision was bold: economic integration, peace, good governance, and a stronger global voice.
Over time, however, this vision has faded. The AU has struggled to respond decisively to coups, contested elections, and external interference.
This perceived weakness has slowly eroded public confidence. To many, the AU now appears more comfortable issuing statements than enforcing standards.
A growing number of Africans believe the AU is stagnant. Some argue that it has little to show for more than six decades of continental organisation, dating back to the OAU era.
As frustration grows, calls for radical reform are becoming louder. Others go further, suggesting dissolution and the creation of a new body that truly serves African people. Whether reform or replacement is the answer, the demand for change is unmistakable.
The issue is not whether Africa needs the African Union. Africa clearly needs continental cooperation. The real question is whether the AU is willing to transform itself. That means political courage, accountability, and a renewed commitment to integration.
If the AU can lead boldly towards a common market, a single currency, a unified military, and a common passport, it can regain relevance. If not, it risks surviving in name while fading in substance.
